Chapter 16: CHAPTER 16

Zara

I pushed open the heavy doors of the lecture hall, my backpack slung over one shoulder, and the familiar buzz of campus life hit me like a wave. After two days away from school, it felt strange being back at school. My heart was still heavy, but at least I wasn’t alone for long because Kate spotted me.

“Zara!” Kate’s voice cut through the surroundings. She bounded toward me, her curly hair bouncing, and pulled me into a tight hug right there in the corridor. “You’re back! I missed you so much. How was everything?”

I smiled, though it didn’t quite reach my eyes. “Hey, Kate. It was… a lot. But I’m here now. Ready for Professor Hale’s class?”

“Ugh, barely,” she groaned, linking her arm with mine as we walked.

“Come on, let’s grab seats before the back row fills up with the usual slackers.”

We slipped into the auditorium just as the lights dimmed. Professor Hale was already at the podium, shuffling his notes. I sank into the chair beside Kate, pulling out my notebook. The lecture today was on modern literature and social constructs something about how body image shapes identity in contemporary novels. I tried to focus, scribbling down key points, but my mind kept drifting.

The break at home had been rough and since I came in the student has been whispering about me. About the way my clothes felt tighter than before. I shifted uncomfortably in my seat and swallowed.

From across the aisle, I caught Finn’s eye. He was sitting two rows up with his usual serious expression, but his gaze lingered on me longer than usual today. Finn had always been the quiet, observant type with those kind green eyes that seemed to see too much.

Today, though, his brow furrowed slightly, like he could tell something was off about me.. I looked away quickly, pretending to be absorbed in the lecture.

Professor Hale’s voice boomed through the hall. “Remember, the characters in these texts aren’t just fighting external villains, they’re battling internalised societal pressures. Beauty standards… these aren’t abstract. They’re woven into daily life.” He clicked to the next slide, and a few students shifted in their seats. I felt my cheeks warm. Kate nudged me gently, offering a small smile of reassurance that the class would be over soon.

The hour dragged on with discussions and group notes. Kate and I whispered back and forth, catching up on gossip, who was dating whom, and the latest cafeteria drama. But Finn kept glancing back. When the class finally ended and the lights came up, I stuffed my things into my bag, eager to escape the stuffy room.

“Zara, wait up,” Kate said, but I was already moving toward the exit, needing fresh air.

I didn’t make it far. As I stepped into the bustling hallway, someone blocked my path. He leaned against the wall with that smug grin. I would have thought it was Dylan and his two hockey friends if I hadn't looked at the face.

I didn't know these three but I know they are here for a different mission. Which was probably me.

“Well, well, look who’s back,” One of them drawled, his eyes raking over me. “Zara, did you bring us any snacks from your little vacation? You look like you’ve been hitting the buffet hard.” He said and his friends snickered.

“Yeah, seriously. What happened? You used to be kinda cute. Now you’re just… filling out the uniform, huh? Fat girl’s back in town.”

The other laughed louder. “Bet she ate her feelings while she was gone. Careful, Zara, or you’ll need two seats next lecture.”

Heat flooded my face. I froze, words sticking in my throat. This wasn’t new, Dylan and his crew had thrown jabs before but today after what I passed through, it cut deeper. My hands trembled on my bag strap. Kate was nowhere in sight. She must have gotten caught in the crowd.

“Leave me alone,” I muttered, trying to sidestep them.

The tall one stepped closer. “Aw, come on. We’re just joking. But seriously, maybe lay off the carbs? For your health, you know?”

Before I could respond, a voice cut through the mockery. “Hey! Back off.” I heard Finn's voice.

Finn appeared at my side, his jaw set. He’d clearly hurried after me from the lecture hall. He positioned himself between the guy and me, shoulders squared.

“What’s your problem, man? Teasing her like that? Grow up.” Finn said and the guy's grin faltered for a second, but he recovered with a laugh.

“Chill, Finn. We’re just having fun. Zara can take a joke, right? She’s got enough padding.” he said but Finn didn’t budge.

His voice stayed calm but firm. “No, she doesn’t have to ‘take’ anything from you. Those comments aren’t funny, they’re pathetic just like you. You think picking on someone makes you cool? It doesn’t. It makes you small.” Finn said and I pressed my lips tighter. I am not in the mood to throw insults today but I am hurt.

The hallway seemed quieter around us, a few students pausing to watch. The three bullies exchanged uneasy glances. Finn turned to me, his eyes softening.

“You okay, Zara?”

I nodded, swallowing hard. “Yeah. Thanks.”

“Whatever,” the guy, whom I believe to be their leaders muttered, waving his hand dismissively. “Come on, guys. Let’s not waste time on this.” They sauntered off, but the sting lingered.

Finn stayed, his hand lightly touching my arm. “I noticed in class. You seemed upset about something. Not your usual self. Want to talk about it? Or grab coffee? My treat. You don’t have to deal with idiots like that alone.” He said and I know he has always been supportive even though he doesn't know how to throw a fit.

“Did you know them?” I asked instead and Finn nodded

“Yes. The tall one among them is called Gerald” Finn said and I swallowed. He is actually as popular as Simon. The guy is a bully but I have never come across myself. What makes them target me when I didn't even do anything wrong?

Kate finally caught up, eyes wide. “What did I miss? Zara, are you alright?” she asked and I nodded even though nothing feels right now.

I let out a shaky breath, the weight on my chest easing just a bit. Returning to school hadn’t been the fresh start I hoped for, but with Kate’s friendship and Finn stepping up like that, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.

“I’m… getting there,” I said and let out a sigh. “Let’s get out of here,”

As we walked away together, Finn matching my pace, I felt a spark of something new. Gratitude, maybe even hope that things will be fine at the end.

“It was actually Gerald.” Finn decided to answer Kate in my stead.

“What? Why would they pick on you?” Kate asked in shock and I swear, I am actually in shock like him. I never expected this.

“I was surprised to. I will handle it” Finn assured me but I doubt the guy will back down easily. This is somehow complicated.